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13 Sep, 2024 by Shawn christmas
Oh the absolute GREATNESS I must speak of Davey Jay and her wonderful office! I have retained her services for about 3 years now for my music business needs, contracts, negotiations and she is the absolute BEST! She is fierce and a force to be reckoned with! When I originally approached her for our initial consultation I felt so nervous and clueless when it came to everything. Right off the bat she was so friendly, helpful, and diligent in understanding my case, that all worries went right out the door. Not to mention she is hilarious and just all around SOLID to have on your side!
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13 Sep, 2024 by Everything but the mime
Davey Jay and her team were a joy to work with. They were able to help me update some legal issues for my business with the utmost professionalism and timeliness. I would highly recommend to anyone!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Monika mason
Davey Jay has a strong knowledge the law and is one of the most brilliant, and sharp, attorneys I know. She is diligent, thorough and passionate about her responsibility to her clients. In addition, she has been a wonderful asset to me as an educator by providing updates as important laws change or legal decisions are available.
Her contributions to the entertainment and arts community are unmatched and I would recommend her firm any day of the week!
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14 Dec, 2024 by Adam lapoint
Josh and his team did an outstanding job with my case. He came highly recommended, and I will certainly be recommending him in the future to anyone who needs legal help.
Thank you Josh!
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26 Nov, 2024 by Bee honesty
The workers here are very helpful and caring. I called with a few questions and the paralegal was so helpful and courteous. Once I’m ready to move forward, I will for sure hire this lawyer. I’ve heard great things about this lawyer.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Ronnie matz
After spending nearly 8 months with another firm, I reached out to Martell Family Law on the recommendation of a friend. Thank the Lord! Josh, Amy and the whole team had my case wrapped up in less than 2 months. They actually cared about me and my case. Learn from my mistake and save yourself a lot of stress, wasted time, additional billing and sleepless nights. Just go with Martell Family Law from the start.
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25 Feb, 2025 by Joseph ramsey
I couldn't be more satisfied with the the service I received. Everything that was promised was delivered, and more. My case was dismissed, I saved money, and I didn't have to waste my time with a traffic class. Jeff Lotter and Marissa were attentive and helpful. I hope I won't need to seek this kind of help again, but if I do, I know who to call.
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13 Feb, 2025 by Chris margrave
Awesome experience being represented by the Law Office of Jeff Lotter. Talked to them twice and explained the situation and they handled everything else. Had the whole case dismissed: no fines, no points, no school, nothing!
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06 Feb, 2025 by Blake mccracken
Great firm. Jeff and his staff were very responsive and handled my case with ease.
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27 Nov, 2024 by David hutchins
I can’t say enough about the service and attention to detail that everyone at Empire law provided. I would highly recommend this firm to represent you great follow up and communication every step of way if I ever need their services again. I would not hesitate To hire this firm. Truly Professional.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Santiago ania
22 Oct, 2024 by Jmm
I was a bit hesitant due to the reputation of law firms however the team at Empire Law exceeded my expectations in handling my claim. From day one Aruna provided clear communication around the process, laid out expectations, and kept us in the loop from beginning to end. Also huge thanks to Mariana for her consistent communication, professionalism and support throughout the process. It was a pleasure working with the team and I would wholeheartedly recommend them without any hesitation!
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25 Sep, 2010 by Anonymous
Mr. Brennan is a skilled, professional and likeable attorney who explains legal issues in clear English He proposed creative solutions to the distribution agreements issues and subsequent sale of our company, and resolved logjams in our company's licensing transactions with suppliers.He brings a congenial personality to practicing law, proving that all good lawyers are not jerks
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14 May, 2019 by Steven
Vanessa is intelligent, hardworking, and knows the law very well. She was able to help me identify several corner cases in my communications and negotiate a civil contract matter with a lot of specific and unusual circumstances, and she was able to do it incredibly fast (because it was time sensitive). On several occasions she was only minutes away. Because of her help, I was able to be confident negotiating my dispute and it worked out.
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01 Dec, 2015 by Ray
Jeff Keiner is a great lawyer. He understands engineering and construction as if he were an engineer or constructor. Thus, he can represent design professionals at the highest level. When I have a need, Jeff is the first person I call. Plus, he has a great sense of humor which is always refreshing when dealing with difficult matters.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Shawn christmas
Oh the absolute GREATNESS I must speak of Davey Jay and her wonderful office! I have retained her services for about 3 years now for my music business needs, contracts, negotiations and she is the absolute BEST! She is fierce and a force to be reckoned with! When I originally approached her for our initial consultation I felt so nervous and clueless when it came to everything. Right off the bat she was so friendly, helpful, and diligent in understanding my case, that all worries went right out the door. Not to mention she is hilarious and just all around SOLID to have on your side!
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13 Sep, 2024 by Everything but the mime
Davey Jay and her team were a joy to work with. They were able to help me update some legal issues for my business with the utmost professionalism and timeliness. I would highly recommend to anyone!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Monika mason
Davey Jay has a strong knowledge the law and is one of the most brilliant, and sharp, attorneys I know. She is diligent, thorough and passionate about her responsibility to her clients. In addition, she has been a wonderful asset to me as an educator by providing updates as important laws change or legal decisions are available.
Her contributions to the entertainment and arts community are unmatched and I would recommend her firm any day of the week!
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06 Feb, 2025 by Maighenn west
Moe is a fantastic personal injury attorney and I would recommend him to anyone that was in a motorcycle accident!
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06 Feb, 2025 by Janelle
I cannot think of a harder working lawyer and team. They really stand in your corner and fight. I would highly recommend them!
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05 Feb, 2025 by Summer beauregard
Our attorney was amazing! She thought for us every step of the way. We cannot thank her and the team at Dewitt enough! You could not in better hands if you choose Dewitt.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Martin hernandez
I as involved in a car accident and they really helped me throughout the process !
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03 Jan, 2025 by Maira hernandez
I was involved in a hit and run and they found the person who caused the accident. They managed to get me compensated for my injuries.
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31 Dec, 2024 by Gabrielle la rosa
Excellent service!! I highly recommend Kamma; she's wonderful!
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07 Feb, 2025 by Lien nicholson
Thank you so much for everything you have done to help me in this process that I have been trying to overcome you have went above and beyond thank you so much Helen!
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06 Feb, 2025 by E f
My wife spoke with Jd. Strong today during a 30-minute consultation. He was excellent! He listened to her concerns and immediately provided her with resources to address them independently. Jd. Strong mentioned receiving 14 calls this week on the same issue from other folks. I highly recommend Jd. Strong; he is transparent, ethical, and knowledgeable. He also said, "If you encounter any issues after discussing them, call me back, and we will address them."
Thank you, Sir. We addressed the issue, and it appears we will. have a resolution next week.
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06 Feb, 2025 by Chivas owle
Got the result I was hoping for and the team was very professional when handling my case. Very happy with the response time and level of service. Would use again and recommend to other people.
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29 Oct, 2024 by Truc pham
Sweetest people! They weren't able to take my case but had guide me to get the right help. Thank you!
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05 Dec, 2023 by Saree herrera
I literally LOVEEE this law firm!!!!!! They’re SUPER helpful and very sweet! I thank God they do what they do because this world needs good people like them! I would DEFINITELY recommend talking to them for anything that comes up! Maureen and the lawyer have been sooo sooo nice with me, they’ve also given me answers on anything I need! I have their phone number for any future cases! Thank youuu guys for everything you have done! Bless you and your families ♥️🤞🏼
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21 Jul, 2023 by Christine peacock
I contacted attorney Brown via voice mail and got a prompt reply. I told him about a few legal matters that were admittedly tricky, bar one. Sadly, although I was not able to hire him, he gave me some solid information how I might help myself with the Insurance Commission and Florida Department of Financial Services as well as said he would check with some associates to see if they were interested in these areas of law. He listened patiently and with compassion and actually gave some helpful advice. Unbelievable! I don't usually take the time to review those I have not directly done business with but his rare professionalism merited my time. If I had his brand of attorney in my corner for these open matters it would have been life-changing, I have no doubt. You folks that did retain him... I can see how he has the near perfect score. Wow, just WOW.
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20 Sep, 2019 by Michel baitelli
12 Feb, 2025 by Onlydabruddaz :
Me and my mom got my ssi by our selfs and they just try to take credit for it when its all done and take your money
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21 Nov, 2024 by Maria santiago
I had the pleasure of working with Kay Ann as my family law attorney, and I was thoroughly impressed with her professionalism and expertise. She demonstrated a deep understanding of my situation and approached it with compassion, which made me feel truly supported. Kay Ann's dedication to her clients is evident, as she consistently went above and beyond to ensure the best possible outcome for me and my daughters. I have complete trust in her abilities and highly recommend her services to anyone in need of a reliable and knowledgeable attorney. Choosing to work with her was an excellent decision. She encouraged me during a very difficult time.
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16 Nov, 2024 by Jorja carr
Very knowledgeable and personable. Highly recommended!!!!
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12 Feb, 2025 by Onlydabruddaz :
Me and my mom got my ssi by our selfs and they just try to take credit for it when its all done and take your money
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21 Nov, 2024 by Maria santiago
I had the pleasure of working with Kay Ann as my family law attorney, and I was thoroughly impressed with her professionalism and expertise. She demonstrated a deep understanding of my situation and approached it with compassion, which made me feel truly supported. Kay Ann's dedication to her clients is evident, as she consistently went above and beyond to ensure the best possible outcome for me and my daughters. I have complete trust in her abilities and highly recommend her services to anyone in need of a reliable and knowledgeable attorney. Choosing to work with her was an excellent decision. She encouraged me during a very difficult time.
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16 Nov, 2024 by Jorja carr
Very knowledgeable and personable. Highly recommended!!!!
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12 Feb, 2025 by Onlydabruddaz :
Me and my mom got my ssi by our selfs and they just try to take credit for it when its all done and take your money
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21 Nov, 2024 by Maria santiago
I had the pleasure of working with Kay Ann as my family law attorney, and I was thoroughly impressed with her professionalism and expertise. She demonstrated a deep understanding of my situation and approached it with compassion, which made me feel truly supported. Kay Ann's dedication to her clients is evident, as she consistently went above and beyond to ensure the best possible outcome for me and my daughters. I have complete trust in her abilities and highly recommend her services to anyone in need of a reliable and knowledgeable attorney. Choosing to work with her was an excellent decision. She encouraged me during a very difficult time.
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16 Nov, 2024 by Jorja carr
Very knowledgeable and personable. Highly recommended!!!!
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12 Feb, 2025 by Onlydabruddaz :
Me and my mom got my ssi by our selfs and they just try to take credit for it when its all done and take your money
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21 Nov, 2024 by Maria santiago
I had the pleasure of working with Kay Ann as my family law attorney, and I was thoroughly impressed with her professionalism and expertise. She demonstrated a deep understanding of my situation and approached it with compassion, which made me feel truly supported. Kay Ann's dedication to her clients is evident, as she consistently went above and beyond to ensure the best possible outcome for me and my daughters. I have complete trust in her abilities and highly recommend her services to anyone in need of a reliable and knowledgeable attorney. Choosing to work with her was an excellent decision. She encouraged me during a very difficult time.
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16 Nov, 2024 by Jorja carr
Very knowledgeable and personable. Highly recommended!!!!
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15 Jan, 2018 by Donald
When working with an attorney I look for someone who is knowledgeable, takes the time to understand what is required of him or her, responds to my inquiries and follows through in a timely manner with a quality work product. Greg hits the mark on all accounts and understands the importance of balancing legal issues with getting a deal done.
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11 Jan, 2018 by Gary
Greg has represented my daughter's music career for four years. In an industry where it almost becomes impossible to know who you can trust it is such a relief to have Greg there by our sides, navigating us through what to do and what not to do. Greg brings the kind of knowledge that only someone with years of real world experience can bring and the kind of integrity that only a person who really cares can have.
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03 Jan, 2018 by Lamard
Greg Galloway is a terrible lawyer and a cheat! After charging a $300 consultation fee this man pretty much went on tease me about the possibility of paring up with a company that would help me get my production off the ground for 2 MONTHS only to turn around and tell me the deal fell through. What worst is when I asked if there was anything we could do to move forward, any people he could try to reach out to and talk to he pretty much said "I wish I could..but I can't" PLEASE save your money and DO NOT go to this guy for any legal advise. He's going to take your money, fake care about your project and leave you high and dry.
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12 Nov, 2020 by Margaret
I retained Mr. Miller's firm for an Action in Partition defense. I was lied to by his partner Robert Garcia. He told me he was going to file a Motion for Mediation, prepared it, billed me for it and never filed it. He failed and refused to get a matter to mediation three times, under the guise that he was trying to save me money, after which I told to get on with and that he would be paid, and he still refused. Mr. Miller even told him to file the Motion and get the Judge to sign an Order. Mr. Garcia still failed to do so.
Then when I became angry at his failure to act, he fires me! Then there was the matter of the $2,500 retainer I paid these people. I had to ask for an itemized bill. I eventually received an email of what was left of my retainer.
Upon receipt of my bill, I discovered that I was billed close to $150 for preparation of a Motion THAT WAS NEVER EVEN FILED WITH THE COURT!! Unless it's filed, it's of zero value! THEN I was charged a $15.00 fee for "filing" another motion. THIS is purely a secretarial function! This takes minutes at best. I have worked for law firms in three different states, and know of NO reputable law firm who bills their clients for pleadings that are NEVER filed and for secretarial services.
The descriptions Mr. Garcia entered on the bill are inadequate. I've billed my time, and my time entries were NEVER called into question because my descriptions were adequate! I was taught well. You simply cannot enter "email with opposing counsel," and a next to nothing description of that email unless, of course, you don't mind redoing billing entries!
When I questioned these email charges, I requested copies of those emails I was being charged for. Mr. Garcia requested that I give him essentially "carte blanche" to have his secretary figure this out and send them to me. He added I would be charged secretarial time and he had no idea how much that would be. Now, once again, I know of no reputable firm that does this kind of thing! IF you want copies of something, you are charged per copy what the Clerk of the Court charged PERIOD! There were NOT that many entries I was questioning.
They failed and flat out refused to address the billing issues. I asked Mr. Miller if he would agree to the Fee Dispute Arbitration Program of the Florida Bar. He failed to respond. IT'S FREE! I also sent another offer to amicably resolve the matter, which also went ignored by Mr. Miller and Mr. Garcia. There was a $600 difference between what they took as their "fee" and what I believe their sub-par work and what they put me through was worth. Many times, both Mr. Miller and Mr. Garcia stated "we do not nickel and dime our clients." Just because they say this, doesn't make it so.
I am a Senior Citizen, living on Social Security. These people ripped me off as set forth above, disrespected me, and took advantage of me.
I do not want anyone else to have to go through this with these horrible people. Use them for closing, as closing are cookie cutter. BUT do not use them for anything else.
Also, this website https://www.expertise.com/fl/orlando/real-estate-attorneys, scored 141 real estate lawyers in Orlando and arrived at the top 33, Mr. Miller's firm is conspicuously not among them. They were scored on availability, qualifications, reputation, experience and professionalism. It appears obvious to me that Mr. Miller's firm must not have measured up.
Now Mr. Miller and Mr. Garcia may attempt to refute all of this. BUT Please know that I have each and every email sent to my by both of them that will substantiate everything and then some.
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28 Oct, 2012 by Tim
For almost 20 years, I have had my numerous real estate closings handled through The Closing Agent, of which Barry Miller is the president. I am confident in his knowledge and expertise. That is why I choose him and his office for my real estate business. He has an efficient and professional staff.
I recommend attorney Barry Miller and his company for legal and real estate services.
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23 Oct, 2012 by Alan
I rarely write reviews, it takes too mich time. But I have to tell you about Barry Miller. It has been my good fortune to be referred to him for real estate contracting and legal advise. He is a pleasant, smart, and highly focused individual who is very knowledgeable and effective. He gets the job done quickly thoroughly, and without embellishment. He is proactive in his contracting, which places me in an advantageous bargaining position.
I recommend him very highly
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14 Nov, 2017 by Mojeh
After hiring two high profile attorneys out of NY, that left me unsatisfied with their efforts, Attorney Ligon took over my personal injury and discrimination case against Uber and increased my settlement amount by over 50%. She is a caring, hardworking and very resourceful attorney who can handle all the details of any case big or small. If there are any legal issues she is the attorney to turn to!
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16 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
I loved the way Ms. Ligon reponded and has stayed engaged with the adjusters when I had my auto accident. She has a great work ethic and did her best to make sure I received the medical attention I needed.
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13 Feb, 2014 by Rodney
Being a client of Attorney Shannon Ligon I authorized attorney Shannon Ligon to employ such legal counsel with entertainment and business matters. A legal matter that Attorney Shannon Ligon provided me with regarded a trademark. Attorney Shannon Ligon devoted valuable time with all legal counsel that was provided.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Ruben jaime
I would be cautious using Brenna manna & Diamond when you read about them they say Pro business law firm with emphasis on competence and character. My experience was completely the opposite. My attorney was not once on time not even to the mediation meeting (late and unprepared), I'm pretty sure I was overcharged for meetings that never happened, and now I'm getting invoices from Apr (that were paid in full) in Nov that show I owe money. when I called they said not to worry about the invoices were closing our files. 7months later! WOW!
I'm a 21yr Navy veteran they told me what I wanted to hear and didn't deliver and so I would NOT recommend using them.
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12 Jun, 2024 by Moumen silk
didn’t deliver on what was agreed upon in our agreement still want to charge horrible service I would stay away
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01 May, 2024 by Lupe ramirez
10 Feb, 2024 by Richard
Unprofessional conduct exhibited by Quinton J. Sheer, Esq., during our telephone conversation earlier, February 9, 2024. I found his behavior to be highly inappropriate and disrespectful.During our conversation, Quinton J. Sheer repeatedly hung up the phone call on three separate occasions. Each time he called back, he attempted to dismiss the issue by falsely claiming that the calls had dropped, using very sarcastic language. This behavior was not only unbecoming of a legal professional but also entirely unacceptable in any professional setting.
I must express my disappointment and frustration with
Quinton J. Sheer lack of professionalism and courtesy. As a client, I expect to be treated with respect and consideration, regardless of the circumstances. Quinton J. Sheer conduct fell far short of these expectations, and it reflects poorly on both him and the firm he represents.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What an Entertainment Lawyer Can Do for You
An entertainment lawyer specializes in legal matters related to the entertainment industry, including film, television, music, publishing, sports, and digital media. They assist artists, creators, producers, and companies with contract negotiations, intellectual property protection, licensing deals, royalties, and disputes. Entertainment lawyers also help clients navigate complex industry regulations and ensure their creative rights are protected.
Whether you're an actor, musician, producer, writer, or influencer, an entertainment lawyer can help safeguard your rights and ensure that your business deals are legally sound.
When Should I Hire an Entertainment Lawyer?
You should consider hiring an entertainment lawyer in a variety of situations, including:
- Contract negotiations: If you're signing a contract for a film role, recording deal, or publishing agreement, an entertainment lawyer can review the terms and negotiate on your behalf to ensure your interests are protected.
- Intellectual property protection: If you're a creator (musician, writer, filmmaker), an entertainment lawyer can help secure copyrights, trademarks, and licensing agreements to protect your work from unauthorized use.
- Disputes or litigation: If you’re involved in a legal dispute, such as breach of contract, copyright infringement, or defamation, an entertainment lawyer can represent you in negotiations or court.
- Representation agreements: If you’re hiring or entering into a contract with a manager, agent, or publicist, a lawyer can ensure that the terms of representation are fair and comply with industry standards.
- Royalties and licensing: If you're licensing your work for use in film, TV, or digital platforms, a lawyer can negotiate royalty agreements to ensure you receive proper compensation.
- Talent contracts: Whether you are hiring talent for a project or negotiating your own appearance or performance fees, an entertainment lawyer can ensure the terms are legally binding and beneficial.
- Film and television production: If you're producing a film, TV show, or other media project, a lawyer can handle contracts with crew, talent, and distributors, and ensure that all legal aspects of the production are covered.
Hiring a lawyer early in your entertainment career or project can prevent costly legal mistakes and protect your creative and financial interests.
What Does an Entertainment Lawyer Do?
An entertainment lawyer provides a range of legal services to professionals in the entertainment industry. Their responsibilities often include:
- Reviewing and drafting contracts: Entertainment lawyers review, draft, and negotiate contracts for talent, production, licensing, distribution, and endorsements. This ensures that the terms are fair and protect their client's interests.
- Securing intellectual property rights: They help clients obtain copyrights, trademarks, and patents for their creative works, and assist with licensing those rights to third parties.
- Negotiating deals: Whether it's a film deal, music contract, publishing agreement, or endorsement, an entertainment lawyer ensures that their client gets favorable terms and is protected from potential legal pitfalls.
- Handling disputes and litigation: In cases where contract terms are violated, intellectual property is infringed, or other legal issues arise, an entertainment lawyer can represent clients in negotiations, arbitration, or court.
- Advising on industry regulations: Entertainment lawyers help clients navigate industry-specific laws, such as union regulations, labor laws, or FCC rules for broadcasting.
- Managing royalties and residuals: They assist in tracking and collecting royalties or residuals for music, film, television, and digital content to ensure clients receive the compensation they are owed.
- Talent agreements and representation: Entertainment lawyers often work with talent agents and managers, ensuring that their clients' representation agreements are legally sound and financially beneficial.
How Are Entertainment Lawyers Paid?
Entertainment lawyers may be paid in various ways, depending on the type of service provided. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Many entertainment lawyers charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $250 to $1,000 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fee: For specific legal services, such as drafting a contract or filing a trademark, some lawyers offer flat fees. Flat fees are common in simpler or one-time transactions.
- Contingency fee: In some cases, especially when working with talent, entertainment lawyers may charge a contingency fee, meaning they take a percentage (usually 5% to 10%) of the client's earnings from a particular project.
- Retainer: For ongoing legal services, such as managing contracts and royalties over a long period, a lawyer may require a retainer fee. This is an upfront payment that covers future legal services, and the lawyer bills against the retainer as they work on the case.
It’s important to discuss fee structures with your lawyer at the outset to ensure you understand the total cost of legal services.
How Much Does an Entertainment Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an entertainment lawyer depends on the complexity of your legal needs, the lawyer’s experience, and the type of fee arrangement. General cost estimates include:
- Hourly rates: Entertainment lawyers typically charge between $250 and $1,000 per hour. More experienced lawyers with extensive connections in the entertainment industry may charge higher rates.
- Flat fees: For simpler services like drafting a basic contract, flat fees can range from $500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the agreement.
- Contingency fees: Lawyers working on a contingency basis typically charge between 5% and 10% of the earnings from a project or deal. For example, if a lawyer helps you secure a $100,000 film contract, their fee might be $5,000 to $10,000.
- Retainers: For ongoing legal representation, retainers can range from $2,500 to $50,000 or more, depending on the scope of the legal services and the length of the engagement.
Always discuss the costs and fee structure during your initial consultation to ensure that the services fit within your budget.
Top Questions to Ask an Entertainment Lawyer
Before hiring an entertainment lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they are the right fit for your career or project. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have in entertainment law?
Ensure the lawyer has experience in your specific area of the entertainment industry, whether it's film, music, television, or digital media. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, flat fee, or contingency fee, and ask for a detailed cost estimate. -
Do you have industry connections?
Ask about the lawyer’s experience and connections in the entertainment industry, which can be valuable for contract negotiations and deal-making. -
What contracts or legal issues should I be aware of?
Ask the lawyer to identify potential legal pitfalls in your specific project or career and how they would help you avoid them. -
What intellectual property protections do I need?
If you’re a creator, ask how the lawyer will help protect your intellectual property rights and prevent others from using your work without permission. -
How will you negotiate deals on my behalf?
Ask about the lawyer’s approach to negotiating contracts, ensuring they focus on getting favorable terms while maintaining strong industry relationships. -
What happens if there is a dispute?
Ask the lawyer how they handle disputes, including whether they aim for negotiation or litigation and how they would protect your interests.
How to Check the Credibility of an Entertainment Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable entertainment lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no disciplinary actions against them.
- Look for entertainment law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in entertainment law and have successfully handled cases or negotiations relevant to your industry.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients say about their experience with the lawyer, especially in terms of contract negotiations and industry knowledge.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on entertainment-related matters.
- Check for industry memberships: Membership in entertainment law organizations, such as the Beverly Hills Bar Association Entertainment Law Section, can indicate a lawyer’s dedication to staying up-to-date on industry trends and regulations.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with an entertainment lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Current contracts or agreements: Bring any contracts you have already signed or are considering, such as talent agreements, recording contracts, publishing deals, or management contracts.
- Intellectual property portfolio: Provide details about any copyrights, trademarks, or other intellectual property you own or are seeking to protect.
- Project details: If you’re working on a specific project (e.g., film, album, book), provide a summary of the project, your role, and any legal needs, such as contract negotiations or copyright protection.
- List of collaborators or stakeholders: Provide information about other parties involved in your project, such as agents, managers, producers, or distributors, and any contracts related to them.
- Questions about your legal needs: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, potential issues, and how the lawyer can help you protect your interests.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your legal needs effectively and provide the best possible advice tailored to your entertainment career or project.
